Week 1: Windhoek 101

In an effort to keep in touch with the world 'back home' I've succumbed to the masses, and have created a blog. Here is my contribution to this newfangled contraption called the world wide web. Oh Al Gore, look what you've done.

It's my first week in Windhoek, Namibia. The journey from the Windy City to Windhoek was a long one. Over the course of the 2 day trip (Chicago-DC-Jo'burg-Windhoek) I wished 3 things: that I had not mocked Dana for purchasing a snuggie for her trip, that the 10 year-old South African girl sitting next to me for the 17hr flight wasn't so talkative and in love with Hannah Montana and the Jonas Brothers, and that the "Proposal" wasn't such a bad movie. Ah Sandra Bullock, look what you've done.

Upon finally arriving in Windhoek, I was utterly shocked to see that all 3 bags that I had checked were waiting patiently for me on the conveyer belt. The 2 overweight bags and akwardly long box I checked were filled with hockey gear, bottles of body lotion, stacks of notebooks, children's books, and a hammock. But lugging all that gear was very much worth it, because I got the best hugs from my nephews who were waiting patiently for my arrival.

The first thing that struck me when flying over Windhoek, is how sparse it is...just massive spanses of land, with trees spottted around for a chang of colour. The roads from the airport had a few 'baboon' crossing signs which was great, especially when we came across a clan of 7 or 8 baboons crossing the road. My sister's place is great - such a nice home, and it reminds me so much of Saudi. There's a night guard in front of the house, walls and gates surrounding the house, with electric fencing around the top, etc. In fact, I didn't even notice it at first when I walked because I felt so at home (Saudi style).

There's a swimming pool and a great terrace, so its wonderful to sit out there for morning tea and meals. The boys are loving it, swimming two, sometimes three times a day. It's still too cold for me, but it should heat up soon.

This week I'm taking it easy, adjusting to the time zone, and trying to 'relax'. Of course, Day 3 hit and I found myself writing up a list of things I want to accomplish in my trip here. Go figure. Next week I start volunteering with NANASO, so I'm excited to start getting into the city.

Anyways - this weekend will probably hit up a safari lodge, so will hopefully have interesting things to say and photos to share. Tonight we're going to a portuguese/angolan restaurant - can't wait!

ciao ciao kids!